The experience the newly-opened Fratelli's Trattoria wants to deliver is "basically, home away from home," co-owner John Lluka said. The eatery, which he said specializes in northern Italian cuisine, opened about a month ago in the 8 Old Post Road space that Hopscotch restaurant used to occupy. It's a visible location in the heart of the village's downtown, next to the popular Black Cow coffeehouse.

Lluka said he and others involved with Fratelli's Trattoria spent years working in places such as Sparks Steakhouse in New York City. In Croton, he said, the goal is to offer "the best food in Westchester." And the aim is for a restaurant that is cozy and friendly.